Ahl al-Bayt (as) Teachings

Ahl al-Bayt (as) Teachings

An Approach to the Essence of Tasbīḥ Through the Lens of Qur'anic Imagery and Narrative Explication

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate Professor, Department of Quranic Sciences and Hadith, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
2 PhD student, Allameh Askari International University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
The Holy Qur’an introduces all creatures and possible beings in existence as glorifiers (musabbiḥāt) of the Divine. Numerous verses emphasize that the cosmos, in its totality and universality, is composed of components that, without exception, are perpetually engaged in tasbīḥ (glorification). The nature and essence of tasbīḥ as one of the most significant Qur’anic concepts has been widely discussed among scholars of the Qur’an. The two primary perspectives in this regard are the theory of tasbīḥ ḥālī (attitudinal or metaphorical glorification) and tasbīḥ qālī (verbal or literal glorification). Relying on a descriptive-analytical method, this study seeks to examine the true nature of this profound concept and propose a third viewpoint. This is achieved through the lens of imagery—one of the mechanisms employed by the Qur’an to elucidate its intended meaning. The findings indicate that the Qur’an itself, through its illustrative techniques, effectively conveys its message regarding tasbīḥ to the reader. As a third perspective resulting from the approach derived from Qur’anic imagery and narrative corroboration, tasbīḥ is understood as the motion and dynamism of existence—a perpetual and purposeful movement throughout the entire cosmos, including all its components and particles.
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Volume 3, Issue 1
Spring 2025
Pages 59-84

  • Receive Date 23 November 2025
  • Accept Date 26 December 2025
  • First Publish Date 26 December 2025
  • Publish Date 01 May 2025